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At least 325 records · Page 18

HLPW-4/GMGW-3: Wall-Modeled LES and Lattice-Boltzmann Technology Focus Group Workshop Summary

A summary of the nine submissions to the Wall-Modeled LES and Lattice-Boltzmann(WMLESLB) Technical Focus Group (TFG) at the 4th High lift Prediction Workshop is provided. The focus of this TFG was to assess the current capabilities of WMLES and Lattice-Boltzmann methods on a complex high-lift configuration across a wide range of angles of attack. Preliminary analysis of the submitted data suggests that>250𝑀spatial degrees of freedom are needed to accurately predict pitching moments at high angles of attack due to large pressure gradients present on the outboard slat and main element for𝛼 >17◦(corrected for free-air).While some scatter is reported in pitching moments at the low-angles of attack (𝛼 <11◦) - likely caused by differences in flap separation possibly due to low Reynolds number effects - excellent agreement is observed between the submissions near the𝐶𝐿,max state. Objective superiority over steady state RANS can be seen in terms of lack of excess outboard separation; a majority of the good quality WMLES and LB submissions predict wedge-shaped separation patterns consistent with the experimental oil flow. Differences in the onset of stall mechanism in the free-air configuration for𝛼 >20◦is reported with two distinct topologies observed. Topology A is characterized by the onset of corner-flow separation which progressively grows to produce a pitch break in free-air with an angle of attack increase from𝛼=20.55◦to𝛼=21.47◦+𝜖where𝜖is a small perturbation (varying between submissions and likely to be within±0.3◦). Topology Bis characterized by boundary layer weakness emanating from the inboard side of the wing-pylon juncture substantially larger than any weakness in the wing-body juncture (due to corner-flow);submissions in this category do not show any tendency for occurrence of a pitch break for the free-air configuration within the vicinity of𝛼=21.47◦. The in-tunnel simulations submitted by3 participants using different discretizations, grids and closure models show excellent agreement with the experiment in terms of a) integrated loads, b) surface flow-topology, and c) mechanism for the onset of inboard stall. Further evidence is provided to demonstrate both qualitative and quantitative superiority of all 3 WMLES submissions over a single steady state RANS submission to the workshop.

TTT↗

Interface capturing simulations of bubble population effects in PWR subchannels

As the computational power of high-performance computing (HPC) facilities grows, so too does the feasibility of using first principle based simulation to study turbulent two-phase flows within complex pressurized water reactor (PWR) geometries. Direct numerical simulation (DNS), integrated with an interface capturing method, allows for the collection of high-fidelity numerical data using advanced analysis techniques. The research presented here employs the massively parallel, finite-element based, unstructured mesh code, PHASTA, to simulate a set of two-phase bubbly flows through PWR subchannel geometries including auxiliary structures (spacer grids and mixing vanes). The main objective of the presented work is to analyze bubble dynamics and turbulence interactions at varying bubble concentrations to support the development of advanced two-phase flow closure models. Turbulent two-phase flows in PWR subchannels were simulated at hydraulic Reynolds numbers of 81,000 with bubble concentrations of 3%–15% by gas volume fraction (768–3928 resolved bubbles, respectively) and compared against a 1% void fraction case (262 bubbles) that had been previously simulated. The finite element mesh utilized for the study at higher bubble concentrations was composed of 1.55 billion elements, compared to the previous study which employed 1.11 billion elements, ensuring all turbulence scales and individual bubbles within the flow are fully resolved. For each case, the resolved initial bubble size was 0.65 mm in diameter (resolved with 25 grid points across the diameter). The simulations were analyzed to find flow features such as the mean velocity profile, bubble relative velocity and the effect of the bubbles on the turbulent conditions.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗

CTF: A modernized, production-level, thermal hydraulic solver for the solution of industry-relevant challenge problems in pressurized water reactors

CTF is a thermal hydraulic (T/H) subchannel tool that has been extensively developed over the past ten years as part of the Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL) program. The code was selected early in the CASL program for support of high-impact challenge problems that were found to be relevant to the nuclear industry and its currently operating fleet of pressurized water reactors (PWRs), including issues such as departure from nucleate boiling (DNB), crud-induced power shifts (CIPSs), and reactivity-insertion accidents (RIAs). By incorporating CTF into the multiphysics Virtual Environment for Reactor Application (VERA) core simulator software developed by CASL, CTF has become the primary means of providing fluid and fuel thermal feedback, as well as T/H figure-of-merits (FOMs) in large-scale reactor simulations. With the goal of solving industry challenge problems, CASL placed great emphasis on developing high-quality, high-performance, validated software tools that offer higher fidelity than what is currently possible with current industry methods. In support of this effort, CTF was developed from a research tool into an nuclear quality assurance (NQA-1)–compliant, production-level software tool that is capable of addressing the stated challenge problems and goals of CASL. This work presents a review of the major technological achievements that were realized in developing CTF over the past decade of the CASL program and presents an overview of the code solution approach and closure models.

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS↗

An approximate inertial manifold (AIM) based closure for turbulent flows

A closure model for turbulent flows is developed based on a dynamical system theory. An appropriately discretized formulation of the governing equations is considered for this process. The key ingredient is an approximation of the system’s attractor, where all the trajectories in phase space are confined. This approximate inertial manifold based approach provides a path to track trajectories of the system in a lower-dimensional subspace. Unlike conventional coarse-graining approaches, the turbulent field is decomposed into resolved and unresolved dynamics using the properties of the governing equations. The novelty of the approach relies on the reconstruction of the unresolved field constrained by the governing equations. A posteriori tests for homogeneous isotropic turbulence and the Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation show promising results for considerable dimension reduction with strong convergence properties. The proposed model outperforms the dynamic Smagorinsky model, and the computational overhead is competitive with similar approaches.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Simulations of saturated MHD activity in the HBT-EP tokamak

The NIMROD code is used to perform simulations of MHD activity in the HBT-EP tokamak, including the effect of a resistive wall. Linear simulations are conducted to scan current and pressure profiles to establish self-consistent baseline equilibria that result in MHD instabilities with low error between experimental diagnostics and synthetic equivalents. A family of such equilibria is found with relatively peaked current and pressure profiles. Nonlinear simulations are performed using the optimal equilibrium, which is linearly unstable to a Resistive Wall Mode—stable in the ideal wall limit and with an Alfvénic growth rate in the no-wall limit. Using resistive wall boundary conditions, nonlinear Hall MHD simulations yield a rotating, saturated n=1 mode similar to the type observed experimentally in HBT-EP discharges. An n=1 mode around the q=2 surface mediates a localized axisymmetric perturbation that flattens the plasma current from a linearly unstable state to a 3D, rotating, stable state. During the saturated period, periodic changes in inter-diagnostic phase lag allow for qualitative estimations of effective, macroscopic transport coefficients used in MHD closure models and could be extended to model post-disruption MHD structure rotation after thermal quenches seen in HBT-EP.

Arnold, David A. (ORCID:0009000059535761)↗

Progress in extending high poloidal beta scenarios on DIII-D towards a steady-state fusion reactor and impact of energetic particles

To prepare for steady-state operation of future fusion reactors (e.g. the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor and China Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR)), experiments on DIII-D have extended the high poloidal beta ( β P ) scenario to reactor-relevant edge safety factor q 95 ~ 6.0, while maintaining a large-radius internal transport barrier (ITB) using negative magnetic shear. Excellent energy confinement quality ( H 98y2 > 1.5) is sustained at high normalized beta ( β N ~ 3.5). This high-performance ITB state with Greenwald density fraction near 100% and q min ≥ 3 is achieved with toroidal plasma rotation V tor ~ 0 at ρ ≥ 0.6. This is a key result for reactors expected to have low V tor . At high β P (≥1.9), large Shafranov shift can stabilize turbulence leading to a high confinement state with a low pedestal and an ITB. At lower β P (<1.9), negative magnetic shear in the plasma core contributes to turbulence suppression and can compensate for reduced Shafranov shift to continue to access a large-radius ITB and excellent confinement with low V tor , consistent with the results of gyrofluid transport simulations. These high- β P cases are characterized by weak/no Alfvén eigenmodes (a.e.) and classical fast-ion transport. At high density, the fast-ion deceleration time decreases and Δ β fast is lower; these reduce a.e. drive. The reverse-shear Alfvén eigenmodes are weaker or stable because the negative magnetic shear region is located at higher radius, away from the peaked fast-ion profile. Resistive wall modes can be a limitation at simultaneous high β N , low internal inductance, and low rotation. Analysis suggests that additional off-axis external current drive could provide a more stable path at reduced q 95 . Based on a DIII-D high- β P plasma with large-radius ITB, two scenarios are proposed for CFETR Q = 5 steady-state operation with ~1 GW fusion power: a lower-$l_i$($l_i$ ~ 0.66) and a higher-$l_i$($l_i$ ~ 0.75) case. Using a Landau closure model, multiple energetic particle (EP) effects on the a.e. stability are analyzed modifying the growth rate of the a.e.s triggered by the neutral-beam-injection EPs and alpha particles, although the stabilizing/destabilizing effect is weak for the cases analyzed. The stabilizing effects of the combined EP species β , energy, and density profile in CFETR need further investigation.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Nonlinear Alfvén instability simulation and EP transport for ITER reversed shear (steady-state) and monotonic q-profile regimes *

The nonlinear evolution and dynamics of energetic particle (EP) driven instabilities in both steady-state (reversed shear q-profile) and monotonic q-profile regimes of ITER are examined using the global gyro-Landau closure model FAR3d. Both neutral beam and alpha components are included, leading to synergistic effects between the two populations. In order to maintain computational feasibility, the present nonlinear simulation includes all toroidal mode numbers ranging from n = 0 to 15. It cannot be excluded that n’s above this range could introduce larger linear growth rates; however, as indicated from the results, the n = 0 to 15 range is sufficient to provide a strong linear drive and significant nonlinear transport effects. While the toroidal mode numbers n = 6,13 dominate the linear instability growth phase, nonlinear energy transfers in the saturated phase reverse this trend, leading to the dominance of lower n’s in the saturated phase of the simulation. Zonal flow structure generation and EP density flattening are further consequences of the nonlinear phase. The density profile flattening is caused by collectively driven EP radial transport fluxes, which have non-local characteristics. Instantaneous alpha particle transport fluxes are significant (Γ α ~ 2 x 10 20 m –2 s –1 ) for the reversed shear regime and lower (Γ α ~ 1.1 x 10 20 m –2 s –1 ) for the monotonic q-profile case.

AE↗

Neural networks for large eddy simulations of wall-bounded turbulence: numerical experiments and challenges

Here, we examine the application of neural network-based methods to improve the accuracy of large eddy simulations of incompressible turbulent flows. The networks are trained to learn a mapping between flow features and the subgrid scales, and applied locally and instantaneously—in the same way as traditional physics-based subgrid closures. Models that use only the local resolved strain rate are poorly correlated with the actual subgrid forces obtained from filtering direct numerical simulation data. We see that highly accurate models in a priori testing are inaccurate in forward calculations, owing to the preponderance of numerical errors in implicitly filtered large eddy simulations. A network that accounts for the discretization errors is trained and found to be unstable in a posteriori testing. We identify a number of challenges that the approach faces, including a distribution shift that affects networks that fail to account for numerical errors.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Crack-growth analysis

Flexible, adaptable, integrative routine, computer program incorporates Collipriest-Ehret and Paris-Forman equations. Calculates growth from initial defect size and terminates calculation when crack is sufficiently large for critical condition. Wheeler, Willenborg, and Grumman Closure models are available.

Bianca, C.↗

Finite element analysis of aeroacoustic jet-flap flows

A computational analysis was performed on the steady, turbulent aerodynamic flowfields associated with a jet-blown flap. For regions devoid of flow separation, a parabolic approximation to the governing time-averaged Navier-Stokes equations was applied. Numerical results are presented for the symmetry plane flow of a slot-nozzle planar jet flap geometry, including prediction of flowfield evolution within the secondary mixing region immediately downstream of the trailing edge. Using a two equation turbulence kinetic energy closure model, rapid generation and decay of large spatial gradients in mean and correlated fluctuating velocity components within the immediate wake region were predicted. Modifications to the turbulent flow structure, as induced by porous surface treatment of the flap, were evaluated. The recirculating flow within a representative discrete slot in the surface was evaluated, using the two dimensional, time-averaged Navier-Stokes equations.

Baker, A. J.↗

Development of a three-dimensional Navier-Stokes code on CDC star-100 computer

A three-dimensional code in body-fitted coordinates was developed using MacCormack's algorithm. The code is structured to be compatible with any general configuration, provided that the metric coefficients for the transformation are available. The governing equations are developed in primitive variables in order to facilitate the incorporation of physical boundary conditions and turbulence-closure models. MacCormack's two-step, unsplit, time-marching algorithm is used to solve the unsteady Navier-Stokes equations until steady-state solution is achieved. Cases discussed include (1) flat plate in supersonic free stream; (2) supersonic flow along an axial corner; (3) subsonic flow in an axial corner at M infinity = 0.95; and (4) supersonic flow in an axial corner at M infinity 1.5.

Vatsa, V. N.↗

Numerical prediction of three-dimensional juncture region flow using the parabolic Navier-Stokes equations

A numerical solution algorithm is established for prediction of subsonic turbulent three-dimensional flows in aerodynamic configuration juncture regions. A turbulence closure model is established using the complete Reynolds stress. Pressure coupling is accomplished using the concepts of complementary and particular solutions to a Poisson equation. Specifications for data input juncture geometry modification are presented.

Baker, A. J.↗

A high order accurate numerical solution algorithm for turbulent boundary layer flow

A fourth-order accurate numerical solution algorithm is derived using finite element interpolation theory for the non-linear parabolic equations governing turbulent boundary layer flow including a two-equation turbulence closure model. The results of carefully controlled numerical experiments firmly quantize for the first time performance differences between finite element and finite difference solution methodology for this type of equation. The developed algorithm takes advantage of the apparent semi-analytical formulational procedure, in establishment of a single, retarded-evaluation Jacobian matrix iterative solution algorithm. Numerical results document performance of solution economy features in terms of computer requirements and solution accuracy. The developed algorithm should find wide application in aerodynamics analysis.

Soliman, M. O.↗

The prediction of turbulence and wind shear associated with thunderstorm gust fronts

The parametric dependence of storm simulation is explored on the basis of the previously reported (1977) second-order closure model of turbulence designed to simulate a thunderstorm gust front. The model simulation results are intended for extrapolation to the conditions considered most hazardous to aircraft operation. It is shown that the presistence and strength of the gust front are enhanced significantly by increasing the spread of the downdraft shaft and the velocity at the top of the domain. Turbulence develops in the regions of high shear and is most intense near the corner and within the gust front itself. While the center shaft is certainly an area to be avoided, the gust front region is probably more critical because it may extend over a large region far from the center of the downdraft, in a highly transient state.

Teske, M. E.↗

Prediction and measurement of turbulent aerodynamic trailing edge flows

A viscous-inviscid interaction algorithm is developed for prediction of two-dimensional mean and fluctuating velocity distributions in the wake immediately downstream of an airfoil trailing edge. A composite pressure field is defined, and a Poisson equation solved for transverse pressure variations. A parabolized form of the time-averaged steady Navier-Stokes equations are solved in conjunction with a viscous-augmented two-dimensional inviscid potential flow analysis. A tensor constitutive equation is employed to predict Reynolds stress distributions from solutions of a turbulence kinetic energy two equation closure model. Numerical predictions compared favorably with detailed experimental data for mean and fluctuating velocities, and Reynolds shear stress distributions, in the trailing edge region of a NACA 63-012 airfoil.

Baker, A. J.↗

Analysis of turbulent boundary layer on cascade and rotor blades of turbomachinery

The momentum integral technique for predicting the boundary layer growth in three-dimensional flow has been extended to include the entrainment equation as the closure model. The numerical solution is compared with the cascade, inducer, compressor, and fan rotor blade data from various sources. The agreement is found to be excellent in all cases, with the exception of the separated flow. Both the momentum thickness and the limiting streamline angle predicted from this analysis compare well with the measured data for a rotor blade. The technique is extremely useful in engineering design, analysis, and performance prediction.

Lakshminarayana, B.↗

Predicting aerodynamic sound utilizing a two-point, two-time turbulence theory

The feasibility of determining two-point, two-time turbulent velocity correlations based on extending closure models for one-point, one-time turbulence correlations is demonstrated. The procedure used is based on a spatial moment integral formulation of the governing equations using approximate, parameterized trial functions for the two-point, two-time velocity correlations. Solution of the equations is shown to give a set of anisotropic length scales and the separation-time-dependent decorrelation of the ensemble averaged turbulent velocities. The analysis is simplified using the assumption of homogeneous stationary turbulence and a constant shear, unidirectional mean flow. It is shown that the anisotropic behavior of measured turbulence correlations can be characterized through this technique.

Hecht, A. M.↗

Measurement and prediction of mean velocity and turbulence structure in the near wake of an airfoil

An experimental investigation of the near wake of a thin airfoil at various incidence angles is reported in this paper. The airfoil (NACA 0012 basic thickness form) was located in a wind tunnel, and the wake structure was measured using hot-wire sensors. The measurements of mean-velocity, turbulence intensity and Reynolds-stress components across the wake at several distances downstream show the complex nature of the near wake and its asymmetrical behavior. The asymmetry in the wake property, which is maintained up to a length of 1.5 chords downstream of the trailing edge of the blade, is dependent on the incidence angle of the inlet flow. The streamwise velocity defect in an asymmetric wake decays more slowly compared to that of a symmetric wake. The streamline curvature due to the blade loading has a substantial effect on the mean velocity profile as well as the turbulence structure. The numerical study of the same wake indicates that the existing turbulence closure models need some modification to account for the asymmetric characteristics of the wake.

Hah, C.↗